Headlice (Nits)

Head lice are small, flat insects that live and lay eggs on the human scalp – the scalp provides food and warmth for the eggs to hatch.

They are common and cause concern and frustration for parents, children and young people. 

Head lice spread by crawling from the hair of one person to another.

Anyone can catch head lice; catching them has nothing to do with not being clean. If you find live head lice or eggs on a family member’s scalp, treat them and check the scalp of everyone in the house.

4 percent (4%) dimethicone lotion is a very effective treatment that your family doctor can prescribe.

Wet combing with cheap conditioner and a fine-tooth head lice (nit) comb is also an effective way to find and remove head lice, if done properly.

Repeat the treatment: 7-10 days later for chemical treatments, and at least every 2-3 days for wet combing. 

If you choose to use another chemical or herbal treatment, speak to your pharmacist, doctor or nurse for advice about what treatment to use and how to use it.

Head lice are sometimes called nits, kutis, kutu bugs, utu or riha.

Never use fly spray, kerosene or treatments intended for animals – these may harm children and adults

Tell the school office so that they can anonymously tell other parents to check their children for head lice and treat if necessary.